Membership FAQs
Why should I join WIPLA?
WIPLA is the only all women all IP law professional group in the Bay Area. We offer insightful content to our members through CLE presentations, host fun social events, and provide outstanding mentoring and networking opportunities to our members.
Why should I become a paid WIPLA member?
As a WIPLA member, you get exclusive access to member-only events, such as WIPLA’s Annual Holiday party, as well as discounted or free access to all WIPLA events. These events range from social to educational, and are always a great way to network. In addition, you get access to the online membership directory and are able to join the committees.
Who can become a member of WIPLA?
Membership is open to attorneys who are licensed to practice law, who are in good standing with their State Bar Association, and who are either currently practicing or in transition and whose practice focuses primarily on intellectual property or legal executives of companies with intellectual property concerns. Membership is also open to licensed patent agents, those admitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and law students interested in practicing intellectual property law.
How often does WIPLA host events?
On average, WIPLA hosts events once a month to once every two months.
What type of events does WIPLA host?
A wide variety! WIPLA hosts many educational events that address issues in intellectual property law, many of which offer CLE credit. Recent CLE events include panel discussions on Privacy and IP issues and IP Year in Review. WIPLA also host mentorship events, including book reviews and panel discussions on women’s issues. WIPLA also provides many networking and social opportunities, such as happy hours, spa parties, chocolate tastings, and its annual Members-Only Holiday Party.
How much does it cost to become a WIPLA member?
Membership is $75.00 a year for practicing attorneys and patent agents. Membership is $25.00 for law students.
What if I register for WIPLA late in the year, can I get a membership discount?
Members who register after July 1st will get a discounted rate.
How can I register to be a member of WIPLA?
You can fill out a membership application through the WIPLA website. Click on “Membership,” then “Membership Application.” Follow the instructions on the screen.
I am having trouble registering as a WIPLA member or for a WIPLA event, what do I do now?
Don’t worry, help is just an e-mail away. If you are having technical difficulties registering, just an email to send an email to info.wipla@gmail.com and someone will get back to you right away.
I am already a member of WIPLA, and would like to become more involved. What can I do?
Join a committee! There are five committees: (1) the Communications Committee, which publishes the bi-monthly newsletter and all event announcements, as well as updates the website and social media sites; (2) the Membership Committee, which oversees member recruitment and retention; (3) the Programs Committee, which organizes CLE events and social functions and works with sponsors with organizing sponsor events; (4) the Mentoring Committee, which organizes programs that address issues of particular interest to women IP attorneys; and (5) the Sponsorship Committee, which oversees the sponsorship program. Joining a committee is a great way to become more involved in WIPLA and meet other WIPLA members. If you are interested in joining, please send an email to info.wipla@gmail.com.